The Latest: Prosecutors say man choked wife, smothered kids

DENVER (AP) — The Latest on sentencing of man who pleaded guilty to killing his pregnant wife and two young daughters (all times local): 11:15 a.m. Prosecutors say a Colorado man strangled his pregnant wife…

DENVER (AP) — The Latest on sentencing of man who pleaded guilty to killing his pregnant wife and two young daughters (all times local):

11:15 a.m.

Prosecutors say a Colorado man strangled his pregnant wife and smothered their two young daughters.

Christopher Watts received three consecutive life sentences without a chance at parole on Monday, nearly two weeks after pleading guilty to avoid the death penalty.

Weld County District Attorney Michael Rourke’s comments on how Watts killed his family are the first time authorities have discussed how the family died.

Authorities had prevented release of the autopsies for Shanann, Bella and Celeste Watts, saying their cause of death would be crucial evidence if Christopher Watts was tried for murder.

Rourke said Shanann Watts’ only injuries were on the right side of her neck, showing marks from fingers or finger nails.

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10:50 a.m.

A Colorado man has been sentenced to life in prison for killing his pregnant wife and their two young daughters.

Christopher Watts was sentenced Monday, nearly two weeks after pleading guilty to avoid the death penalty. Prosecutors have said Shanann Watts’ family consented to the plea deal.

He also pleaded guilty to unlawful termination of a pregnancy and tampering with a deceased human body. The 33-year-old is not eligible for parole.

Police have said Watts killed his wife and daughters, 4-year-old Bella and 3-year-old Celeste, inside their suburban Denver home. The children were found inside an oil tank. Watts was buried nearby.

A friend reported them missing in mid-August. In local news interviews before his arrest, Watts pleaded for his family’s safe return.

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11:45 p.m.

A Colorado man who has pleaded guilty to murdering his pregnant wife and their two young daughters is set to be sentenced.

Christopher Watts entered his plea early this month in Weld County.

Watts faces life in prison without a chance at parole for the murder charges. The 33-year-old also pleaded guilty to unlawful termination of a pregnancy.

Prosecutors say Shanann Watts’ family consented to the plea deal allowing Christopher Watts to avoid the death penalty.

Police say Watts killed his wife and their daughters, four-year-old Bella and three-year-old Celeste, inside their suburban Denver home. The children were found inside an oil tank and Watts was buried nearby.

A friend reported the family missing in mid-August. In local news interviews before his arrest, Watts pleaded for his family’s safe return.